Living a holy life is not an option for a Christian. A true Christian develops an intimate relationship with Jesus, a key part of which is studying God’s Word. This is no easy task for some. To make it a little easier, we recommend you mix up the way you approach a Bible study. Here are 5 different methods of Bible study.
- Daily Devotionals. One of my favorite daily devotionals is also one of the most popular, Our Daily Bread. It is written in simple language, concise, includes scripture references, and poems or lyrics. It’s life applications always hit home when approached prayerfully. Every major Christian denomination prints a quality devotional similar to this. If you haven’t tried this method of Bible study, please do.
- Compare and Contrast. I prefer the New King James Version of the Bible, but the New American Standard Bible is, to me, a close second. I also own an NIV and a couple of older King James Bibles. I often open more than one version to compare and contrast versions, which can lend new, if subtle, perspectives to a verse or passage.
- Topical Bible, Concordance, or Bible Dictionary. This is one of my favorite ways of studying. I can spend hours, days, or weeks using this method. Pick a topic that interests you, look it up in a Bible reference, and study the verses that speak to that subject. Then study related topics.
- Chronological Bible. A study that follows the Bible in chronological order is fascinating and shines light on many questions. One hint – and most chronological Bibles miss this – read the first chapter of the Gospel of John along with Genesis 1.
- Narrative Bible. Many people of my generation will find this recommendation foolish or offensive, but a narrative Bible can be exciting or fun, which will pique your interest and make studying easier. Many forms of narrative Bibles exist, from children’s Bibles to graphic novels to storybook to novelization.
Bonus: mix it up, alternate, keep it fresh.
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